The City of Everett, Washington has put together some helpful information as forecasters say our first fall storm of the 2021 season may be upon us this weekend. From the emergency 24-hour-phone number for Public Works to how to file a claim if your basement floods, Here’s what you need to know.
It may get wet and windy in Everett this weekend.
Clogged storm drains can cause some unexpected surprises.
With the first significant storm of the season forecast for this weekend, Everett Public Works offers tips to help community members prepare for and minimize damage from heavy seasonal rainstorms that can cause flooding.
What to do now, before a storm
- Identify nearby trees that might fall in a windstorm. If possible, take action to remove them.
- Avoid piling yard waste like fallen leaves and sticks in your yard, on the sidewalk or in the street where it could wash into City drains. Keep it in a yard waste bin or other container.
- Use a rake or broom to remove leaves and debris from the grates of storm drain catch basins and inlets, and then place the material in your yard waste cart.
- Extend downspouts away from your home. Do not connect downspouts to your side sewer.
- If you have a backwater valve, check to make sure it is working and seated properly. View the City’s backwater valve maintenance video.
- Watch the City of Everett fall stormwater tips video.
What to do during a storm
- If an inlet or catch basin grate appears to be blocked by debris, try to safely clear a channel to provide a path for the runoff.
- If you have a backwater valve and there has been intense rainfall in a short period of time, wait 10-15 minutes after the rain subsides before using water fixtures (toilets, dishwashers, sinks, showers, washing machines) in your home. This allows higher water volumes to dissipate.
- If you are concerned about controlling runoff into your property, sandbags may help. Bring your own shovel to one of the free self-service sandbag location at 4015 Railway Ave.
- To report water, sewer, or other storm related problems, call the City of Everett’s 24-hour dispatch at 425-257-8821.
What to do if your basement floods
- First and foremost, mitigate and protect your property.
- Call Public Works 24-hour dispatch at 425-257-8821.
- Carefully document the site by taking photographs and itemizing all items to provide a complete description of everything.
- Remove all wet items, including the carpet if necessary.
- Get the area dried out before odors and/or mold becomes an issue.
- The City recommends hiring a professional cleaning company to clean and disinfect. If you choose to do it yourself, please see the Department of Health’s fact sheet on cleaning a basement.
- If you believe the City of Everett is at fault for your basement flooding, you can file a claim for damages.
September 16, 2021
Everett